Nine-day carnival ends in climax (1 November 1998)

1 November 1998

Nine-day carnival ends in climax

by Zahid Newaz in Dhaka

The nine-day cricket carnival comes to an end today as the climax of Wills International Cup takes place with two pre-tournament non-favourites South Africa and West Indies confronting each other.

People, gripped with cricket fever for the last few days, are waiting with baited breath to watch a thrilling 100,000 dollars finale to the first ever knock out world cup at the greens of Bangabandhu National Stadium. They expect a tough and competitive clash between willow and leather - Calypso and Springbok - to choose the fittest of the nine nations who joined the mega spectacle of cricket for one chance.

Bangladesh was not among the contestants in the greatest cricketing show it hosted, but people of all ages and from all walks of life - in cities, towns and villages - supported with great gusto either of the nine teams. And finally they cheered good cricket whenever the 126 players battling in the eight-match "mini world cup", where every match was final, performed well on the field - in batting, bowling and fielding.

Except the lone pre-quarter final between New Zealand and Zimbabwe, the Bangabandhu National Stadium saw a packed crowd in its galleries. Millions of people also watched the matches on television screen.

The successful hosting of the biggest sports show, specially after the century's worst and longest deluge, was also a great opportunity for raising the country's profile in the world.

When the newly installed floodlight and electronic scoreboard were a special attraction for the spectators, tight security measures by the Armed Forces and police personnel was also a key feature.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the Wills International Cup on October 24. And she is expected to hand over the trophy and the 100,000 US dollar prize money to the ultimate winner of the tournament.

And who who will be the winner in today's exciting encounter, the 11th meeting between South Africa and West Indies? Both have five wins in their previous 10 matches.

Both the captains are confident to kiss the trophy despite themselves describing each other as very strong and tough sides.

Hansie Cronje said there is no reason not to hope for the cup, especially after very good performances in the quarter final against England and the semi final against Sri Lanka. Brian Lara termed his opponent as champions of fielding but said he is optimistic about the West Indies giving a better performance in all departments to win.

Source :: CricInfo365